Amir Khan supports Peshawar victims

Boxer Amir Khan has arrived in Pakistan to lend his support to the victims of the Peshawar school shooting massacre.

The former world light welterweight champion and Olympic silver medallist had vowed to help rebuild the Army Public School in the city where more than 140 pupils and staff died at the hands of the Pakistani Taliban earlier this month.

He condemned the attacks as “absolutely horrific and sickening” and donated to the school the pair of shorts – worth £30,000 with a waistband made from 24-carat gold threading – which he wore in his recent victory against American rival Devon Alexander.

Bolton-born Khan, who is of Pakistani heritage, gave a press conference in Islamabad today and explained he was on a brief visit to the country.

The 28-year-old told Pakistan’s Dawn News: “I have come here to help and show my support. Also I want to help rebuild the school in Peshawar and build security more stronger around that area.

“And also give people hope in Pakistan, give them support in education and in sport. That’s what I want to do here.”

He added he had plans to set up academies in his name for young people across Pakistan.